The Unique Program Created by Kilvington
The Character Initiative focuses on developing key character traits through our curriculum. It integrates character development into regular wellbeing/mentoring sessions and dedicated school days. Led by Kilvington’s passionate Character Development Team and supported by longstanding external partnerships, the initiative ensures that character education is as important as all other aspects of the Kilvington curriculum.
Kilvington has developed what many people regard as the most advanced system of character building of any school in the Australian education system.
— The Age
Why Teach Character?
Being resilient, courageous, curious, persistent, diligent, and empathic makes life more rewarding. Research shows that building these character strengths in children supports high performance and success throughout life. Positive psychology studies confirm that using character strengths improves students’ school performance, social skills, and enjoyment in school.
A school should do more than impart knowledge - its aim should be to build character. If it does not impress upon its pupils some ideals of honour, duty and service, it has failed in the most important part of school life.
— Caroline Barrett | Kilvington Founder - 1932
Teaching Character and Wellbeing
Research shows character can be taught and developed, and is embedded across our curriculum. Aligned with our school values of Respect, Curiosity, Perseverance, and Compassion, The Resilience Project equips students with essential mental health strategies through Gratitude, Empathy, Mindfulness, and Emotional Literacy.
Our dedicated Junior School program, Wellbeing Time, continues in Years 7 and 8 as Mentor Time, delivering this research-backed program, which has been evaluated by The University of Adelaide and The University of Melbourne, to help build resilience, reduce the risk of mental illness, and support our students’ wellbeing and personal growth.
Kilvington’s character program means a lot to me. It teaches me honourable character traits and this has helped me become a better person in class and in the playground. I am more positive and thoughtful, respecting those around me and better at being grateful for what I have.
— Student | Year 5
Character and Connection Days
Character and Connection Days are dedicated to developing students' character and wellbeing from the start of their Senior School journey. Each year, students explore key virtues through immersive workshops, community projects, and real-world experiences. These full-day sessions are aligned with community service partnerships, giving students hands-on opportunities to contribute to society. By collaborating with external experts like Tomorrow People and the Reach Foundation, we empower students to deepen their understanding of character and make a positive impact on the world.
Kilvington's program is carefully frame worked around each year level and age group:
Year 7 marks the start of senior school, where students focus on building strong connections through self-awareness, friendliness, gratitude, self-discipline, and teamwork, while identifying and celebrating their personal strengths and growth.
Year 8 focuses on developing respectful relationships by empowering students to lead, collaborate, and create impactful projects in areas like sustainability, poverty, education, or aged care, fostering both personal growth and community contributions.
Kilvington's Year 9 Impact Program plays a crucial role in character development during one of the most formative stages of a young adult’s life. This program focuses on fostering personal growth, self-awareness, resilience, and independence, empowering students to make informed choices and confidently navigate worldly challenges. It lays the foundation for a positive self-image, healthy relationships, and a motivated, purpose-driven approach to pursuing academic and personal goals.
Year 10 students will experience the RISE Leadership and Personal Development program, offering leadership pathways through personal skills development, peer mentoring, and disability support leadership.
In partnership with Tomorrow People and Flying Fox, students participating in the Flying Fox Camp take on leadership roles, caring for participants with disabilities while putting their development into practice, building deep connections, and demonstrating compassion and adaptability.
Sinead stepped out of her comfort zone and was truly rewarded by it. She really loved helping her new friend have a great time. This is the first time she had ever done anything so focused on someone else, and I'm very grateful to everyone for encouraging Sinead.
— Stella | Year 10 Parent